Safe Home Base - LGBTQIA+ Ally Network
‘Safe Home Base’ – LGBTQIA+ Ally Network
Lesbian, gay, bi, trans, queer, intersex, asexual (LGBTQIA+) students and colleagues face many challenges in their daily lives because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This was particularly highlighted in the time of Covid-19. Many couldn’t access supportive resources or communities at home, and Covid-19 restrictions met many were unable to socialise in appropriate spaces. As a result of Covid-19, the allies of the LGBT Staff Network created the LGBTQIA+ Ally Network and launched the 'Safe Home Base' allyship programme.
When people start studying or working at the University, they have the chance to be themselves for the first time. This gives rise to a lot of emotions and desire to learn more about themselves and the LGBTQIA+ community.
An Ally is a person who does not necessarily identify as LGBTQIA+ and believes that lesbian gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, asexual and all queer people should enjoy full equality. They can be people who identify as L, G, B, T, Q, I, A, or + and are an ally to others across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
Staff who sign up to be an LGBTQIA+ Ally are willing to let students or colleagues approaching them for guidance or help, and they can be active listeners to LGBTQIA+ students and staff’s experiences.
In essence, an Ally is a known safe port of call, and we need many of them in the LGBTQIA+ Ally Network.
Would you like to become an LGBTQIA+ Ally?
To become an LGBTQIA+ Ally in your department, please email lgbtqiaally@lancaster.ac.uk.
Once you sign up as an Ally, you can have access to resources that can assist you in familiarising yourself with your role. You will also participate in an induction session held by the Ally Network lead and members of the LGBT Staff Network. Induction session and network meeting dates are posted in the LGBTQIA+ Allies Microsoft Teams channel. Induction sessions are recorded for allies who cannot attend.
Resources for an LGBTQIA+ Ally
There are many useful resources for Allies on our website.
You can have a look at the Policy and Guidance on Gender Identity and Expression, and at the map of gender-neutral toilets available on campus.
The Students’ Union has an LGBTQ+ Officer and passed policies on Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ people and on the use of pronouns. Students who are looking for friendly environments to express themselves can also refer to the Women+ forum and to the LGBTQ+ forum.
There are several organisations supporting LGBTQ+ rights in the Lancaster and Manchester area, such as:
- Horizon LGB&T LGB&T Community Development Project based at Renaissance in Blackpool. Offering Social Groups and one-to-one support to those who identify as LGB and/or T and any variations thereof.
- Lancashire LGBT A county-wide organisation working across Lancashire for LGBT people.
- LGBT Foundation National LGBT Helpline.
We have also put together 5 Places to seek help and support as a Lancaster student.